Management of Ecchymosis After Cosmetic Procedures - A Promising Solution

Introduction:

Ecchymosis is caused by the leakage of blood into the surrounding tissue, which causes discoloration of the skin. It is a blue or black area and can sometimes be dark purple in color. Bruising or ecchymosis is a commonly seen side effect after most cosmetic procedures like fillers, injectables, and laser treatments. It is a temporary condition and is not medically serious. But it can be uncomfortable for the patients. So the management of ecchymosis after the cosmetic procedure is needed. There are several methods to decrease bruising, swelling, and various other associated symptoms. By following some guidelines, patients can reduce the impact of ecchymosis and can create a successful recovery after the cosmetic procedure.

What Is Ecchymosis After Cosmetic Procedures?

Bruising or ecchymosis is a commonly seen side effect after most cosmetic procedures using fillers, injectables, or by laser treatment. The duration and extent of the bruising or ecchymosis depend on the type of procedure, individual patient, and various other factors. Some general strategies can help in managing ecchymosis. Always follow the post-operative instructions given by the health care professional that include managing the ecchymosis. The application of ice, avoiding blood thinner medications and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and topical application of arnica are some of the remedies that are used to decrease bruising and swelling after cosmetic procedures.

Before the start of the surgery, various steps are used to minimize the risk and complications of ecchymosis. This includes avoiding caffeine and alcohol consumption before the surgical procedure. Medications and supplements that increase the risk and chance of bleeding or swelling are also should be stopped to decrease the risk of ecchymosis. Bruising and swelling are naturally a part of the healing process, and they will resolve on their own after a few days to a week after the surgical procedure when the body absorbs the excess blood naturally. If there is prolonged ecchymosis after the surgical procedure, immediately contact the healthcare professional to evaluate and get further treatment. In severe cases, aggressive treatment strategies like chemical peels or laser therapy are indicated.

What Are the Causes of Ecchymosis After Cosmetic Procedures?

Ecchymosis can be caused due to the following reasons:

• Blood Vessel Trauma - Cosmetic procedures that use fillers and injectables involve the usage of needles and other instruments, which can cause trauma to the blood vessels that lie under the skin. This trauma to the blood vessel can result in bleeding and bruising.

• Medications - Blood thinners can have an increased risk of bruising and bleeding. If the patient is under any blood clotting medications, they should be informed prior to the start of the procedure to reduce complications.

• Exposure to the Sun - Sun exposure or UV (ultraviolet) radiation can affect the blood vessels present under the skin, and there will be an increased risk of bruising.

• Genetics - Genetic factors can affect the elasticity and strength of the blood vessels. People having these genetic factors are more prone to bruising or ecchymosis.

• Age - As with the increase in age, the skin becomes thinner and becomes more fragile than younger skin. So as age increases, people are more susceptible to ecchymosis or bruising.

• Inflammatory Conditions - Inflammatory conditions, autoimmune disorders, and some medical conditions have a high chance of bruising and bleeding.

How Is Ecchymosis After Cosmetic Procedures Managed?

The following methods can manage ecchymosis after cosmetic procedures:

• Application of Ice - Applying ice can help decrease the inflammation and swelling in the affected area. A cold compress or an ice pack which is wrapped in a towel, can be used for applying for 20 minutes several times a day.

• Using Arnica - A natural anti-inflammatory that is used to decrease bruising and swelling is called arnica. It is available in gel or cream form. Apply the arnica cream topically over the affected area. It should be used as directed by the healthcare professional.

• Elevating the Affected Area - Elevation of the affected area can help in decreasing the swelling present and improve the feeling. For example, in the case of bruising on the face, try to sleep with the head elevated above the heart level by using an extra pillow.

• Avoiding Blood Thinners - Ibuprofen, Aspirin, and Naproxen are examples of some of the blood thinning medications used. Blood thinners can have an increased risk of bruising and bleeding. Avoid the blood thinner medication before and after several days of the procedure for safety.

• Laser Therapy - In severe cases of bruising, more aggressive treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy are used to manage the ecchymosis.

• Be Patient - Bruising is commonly seen as a normal part of the healing process after a surgical procedure. It will resolve on its own after a few days to a week. So be patient and allow for natural healing.

• Application of Heat - Heat helps in improving the circulation of the blood. The application of heat will clear the trapped blood after bruising. Heat can also help in reducing pain by loosening the tense muscles. A hot bottle of water, a heating pad, or soaking in a hot bath can be used as options for the application of heat.

• Vitamin K Cream - Vitamin K helps with blood clotting, and the usage of vitamin K cream helps in decreasing the severity of bruising and ecchymosis after laser treatment.

• Vitamin C - Vitamin C helps improve wound healing and has many anti-inflammatory properties. It is available as a cream, gel, or as serum. Vitamin C can be applied topically.

• Aloe Vera - Topical application of aloe vera to the affected area helps decrease the pain and inflammation due to bruising or ecchymosis.

• Pineapple - Pineapple has a mixture of enzymes called bromelain which help in decreasing the severity of bruising and help in reducing inflammation.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, ecchymosis is a commonly seen side effect after most cosmetic procedures, which creates discomfort and increases the recovery process of the patient. By following certain guidelines, patients can reduce and manage ecchymosis and improve the recovery process. This includes the application of ice, avoiding the use of blood thinners, using arnica, etc. Patients should follow the post-operative instructions given by the health care professional after the cosmetic procedures.